Hello all,
After dealing with very long cranks and loss of power at high RPM, I finally have received a new high pressure fuel pump. The difference is dramatic, indicating the problem with the initial fuel pump must have been present from time of delivery. Now, the power delivery is much more linear and smooth. Power does not drop off at higher RPMs, and the crank-up time is nearly instantaneous.

Now I have been experiencing problems with my clutch.. a little bit of a rattle when setting off in first gear (sounds the same as when you turn the car off while in neutral--you guys know what I'm talking about!). I suspect throwout bearing. Before you skeptics jump to conclusions.. I have yet to do one burn out, and have babied the clutch. The dealership is concerned so I have booked yet another service appointment.

Seems like one thing after another. My E36 was rock solid. I have to wonder.. what's next???

I heard the same noise this morning on my way in. Was most prevalent when starting in 2nd from a slow crawl in traffic. I attributed the few instances to a slightly lugged engine, but I'll keep a closer ear on it. thanks for the post.

Agreed, the problems with the newer Bimmers, although not necessarily more frequent, are certainly more concerning than the issued I had with past models. :iono:

Service dept. was very concerned about this. We played around with it a bit more in the parking lot, and the mechanics can't tell where it's coming from. But it's likely clutch related. I've noticed I can replicate the sound by turning off the car in neutral. If I engage the clutch and turn off the car.. no sound. Very peculiar.